By Police1 Staff
ARLINGTON, Texas — Officers showed up to pay their respects this week to a man who formed a strong bond with officers as a competitor in the Special Olympics.
Police told Fox 4 DFW that Ross Steele, 36, always greeted them with a smile and told them how much he admired police. Steele died unexpectedly two weeks ago at swim practice from an apparent heart attack.
“He’d always salute us,” Officer Dick Hill said. “That was his big thing — smile and salute.”
Steele formed a love for law enforcement and the military in high school when he was a member of the ROTC program. His mother, Debbie, said he’d always walk up to officers and military members and thank them for their service.
Law enforcement and Steele formed a strong bond while Steele was competing in the Special Olympics. Officers from three different departments showed up to the funeral to their respects to someone who appreciated them so much.
“He sees the positive sides of everything and everyone,” Det. Tim Henz said. “Negatives are not in his makeup.”
Debbie told Fox 4 it meant a lot that they showed up to say goodbye.
“Ross had an impact on a lot of people,” Debbie said. “And that he showed so much kindness and love, they’re returning that favor now by being here.”
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